CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz Advises Federal Staff on Holiday Portion Control

Dr. Mehmet Oz, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), has issued health and wellness guidance to CMS federal employees for the holiday season, emphasizing portion control and mindful eating. His advice, communicated via an internal bulletin titled "From the Administrator's Desk," encourages employees to set consumption limits for holiday treats and to use smaller plates to support moderation.\n\nOz's recommendations include deliberate eating practices, such as placing utensils down between bites to slow down and attending to bodily cues to avoid overeating. He also suggested refraining from using both hands simultaneously during social events to maintain professional engagement.\n\nThis guidance is part of CMS's internal efforts to support its staff of approximately 6,000 employees who manage health coverage for over 160 million Americans through Medicare, Medicaid, and related programs. The agency positions these health tips as a way to balance a healthy lifestyle alongside the demands of administering key federal health insurance initiatives.\n\nDr. Oz, appointed by President Donald Trump, heads CMS under the Department of Health and Human Services leadership. His background includes public health advocacy alongside prior experience in media, where he promoted some unproven weight loss products. This historical context underscores the ongoing scrutiny of health claims from figures transitioning into regulatory roles. \n\nThis internal communication reflects a broader trend in federal agencies promoting wellness and productivity among employees, emphasizing practical, non-medical strategies to sustain health during seasons known for increased social eating and reduced physical activity. CMS's approach highlights the administrative focus on staff well-being as part of broader organizational effectiveness in managing extensive public health programs.